LakbayLoyd Lighthouse Series 08: EL FARO DE PUNTA PATAR, Bolinao, Pangasinan

As my quest for lighthouses continues, finding one in the remotest location  might be fulfilling, but also disappointing that these structures have been savaged by elements or just left for decay.

So far, I have been to eight of so many known lighthouses all over the country, the latest is this one in Bolinao, Pangasinan.

El Faro De Punta Patar, or Cape Bolinao, also known as the Bolinao Lighthouse or Cape Bolinao, is located in Bgy. Patar. It is the second tallest lighthouse in the Philippines, the tallest being the Cape Bojeador in Burgos, Ilocos Norte. This may not be one of the old Spanish-time lighthouses, but listed as one of the major lighthouses and historically relevant structures in the Philippines.

The lighthouse can be seen on top of the hill overlooking the beautiful fine sand beaches of Patar in Bolinao. Patar is now a popular tourist destination with so many choices to enjoy the beach, waterfalls, caves, and the Pangasinense culture as well.

The Bolinao Lighthouse and the entire Patar is very accessible via private vehicles. But if you are taking he public transports, a tricycle is available to take you in and out Patar for the whole day for P1000.00. This may include trips to the caves, the waterfalls, the rock formations, and the pristine Patar White Beach. 

How Did I Get There

To split with the travel expenses, I brought along my ever clingy and itchy-feet amiga, Tess Nanez. The last minute invite never bothered her and she was more than twice as excited to come along.

This trip was really intended for Capones Island in Zambales where the iconic Capones Lighthouse was located. Due to an unfavorable weather condition, sailing in San Antonio shores was prohibited to our dismay. Nevertheless, we didn't allowed that moment for us to become unfortunate. We immediately hit the road and took the next bus up the Zambales province and beyond, wherever the road may take us. 

It was a long drive to nowhere. We traversed the stretch of Zambales and soon we ended up strolling and rolling in the pristine beaches of Bolinao, Pangasinan.